Earlier today, Putnam Investments CEO Robert Reynolds addressed the Chamber’s Financial Services Forum.  Reynolds called for officials to do even more to combat this financial crisis, partly by proposing a suspension of mark-to-market accounting rules to improve the credit system.  Reynolds also called on the banking industry to increase lending and find ways to slow foreclosure rates.  He warned against keeping “zombie companies” alive with federal life support, and suggested that government aid should not be given unless companies have a well-developed recovery strategy in place.  If companies fail to use taxpayer money efficiently, Reynolds recommends that the government let these companies fail.  Lastly, he urged the Obama Administration to focus more heavily on the economy and act more aggressively to solve its problems. 

To view images from today’s event, click here.

This event was covered by the Boston Globe, Boston Herald, and Investment News.
 

Robert Reynolds, president & CEO of Putnam Investments, LLC, will address the Chamber's Financial Services Forum on Thursday morning at the Boston Harbor Hotel.

Since joining Putnam in July 2008, Reynolds has embarked upon an aggressive reorganization effort.  Already, Putnam has released a series of “absolute return” funds that promise specific percentage returns if investors hold on for three years or more, allowing portfolio managers to focus on meeting the return and reducing risk and volatility.  Reynolds has restructured the firm’s equity group, consolidating six equity funds into large, existing funds in an effort to boost fundamental research capabilities, lower fees, and best individual portfolio managers with more power.  And Putnam has also identified the retirement market as a strong opportunity for growth and expanded its retirement offerings.  

Reynolds previously served as vice chairman and chief operating officer of Fidelity Investments.  He joined Fidelity in 1984, and served in a variety of senior management roles, including president of the Fidelity Investments Institutional Retirement group where he was a key player in building the company’s 401 (k) and defined contribution business.  A native of Clarksburg, West Virginia, Reynolds is a graduate of the West Virginia University College of Business and Economics.

Click here to register for this event.

This morning, Massachusetts State Treasurer Timothy Cahill addressed the Chamber’s Government Affairs Forum.  In his address, Cahill outlined his proposal to introduce Video Lottery Terminals, or slot machines, to the state of Massachusetts as a new source of revenue.  His plan would license three locations geographically around the state and provide each location with approximately 2,500 to 3,000 machines. Depending on the exact number of machines issued, Cahill estimates that this proposal could generate gross annual revenue of between $752 million and $903 million dollars.  One third of the revenue would go to replenishing the state’s reserve account, a third would go to creating a public higher education endowment for the University of Massachusetts, and a final third would be used to boost state retiree health care.  Given the difficult external environment, Treasurer Cahill emphasized the importance of considering new revenue streams.
 

Images from the event can be viewed here.

Today’s event was widely covered by the Boston Globe, Boston Herald, WBUR, South Coast Today, and Forbes.
 

Treasurer Cahill’s address will be broadcast on WBUR 90.9 at 8:00pm this Sunday, March 8.
 

Don’t miss the Chamber’s next Government Affairs Forum with Speaker of the House Robert DeLeo on March 31.  For event details and registration, click here.
 

The Chamber would like to thank Bank of America for sponsoring this forum.

 

The 2009 Small Business of the Year Award & Entrepreneur of the Year Award nomination process is now open! Click here to dowload a nomination form. All nominations are due to the Chamber by April 10 in order to be considered for the 2009 award program.

Presented annually since 1985, The Small Business of the Year Awards honor the achievements of small business and the spirit of entrepreneurship.  This awards luncheon typically attracts more than 300 attendees from a wide array of industries in the region. To view a list of previous winners, click here.

The 2009 Small Business of the Year Awards Luncheon will be held on Thursday, October 15 at the Sheraton Boston Hotel.

Massachusetts Treasurer Tim Cahill will be the featured speaker at the Chamber's Government Affairs Forum on March 4.

As the Commonwealth’s chief financial officer, Cahill has taken a business-minded approach to his position, working to implement better business practices throughout the Treasury.  During an especially difficult year in 2008, several treasury departments outperformed their peers in others states.  The Lottery had its best year ever, generating $4.7 billion in revenue for local aid; the Massachusetts Pension Reserves Investment Management Board ranked in the top tier of public pension funds in the U.S.; and the Massachusetts School Building authority held the line on fees, consulting costs, and non-essential building elements that add to school costs.  Additionally, Cahill has helped the state maintain very strong bond ratings – a critical distinction in this time of tight credit markets.

Prior to his current position, Cahill served as Norfolk County treasurer and a Quincy city councilor.  He is a graduate of Boston University and a recipient of the 2007 Eisenhower Fellowship.

Click here to register for this event.

Massachusetts Speaker Robert DeLeo will be the featured speaker at the Chamber's Government Affairs Forum breakfast on March 31, 2009.

Please visit bostonchamber.com for more details to follow or register for the event.

Mary Lou Andre will be the featured speaker at the Chamber's Women's Network breakfast on Wednesday, March 11, at the Ritz-Carlton Boston Common.  

Andre is a nationally recognized corporate image consultant, speaker, and author. She is founder and president of Organization By Design, Inc., a Needham-based wardrobe management, fashion, and image consulting firm that helps individuals and organizations understand the power of being appropriately dressed in a variety of situations.  Through her extensive corporate, retail, and private client services, Andre has helped thousands of individuals identify and pull together a wardrobe that compliments their professional and casual lifestyles.

A graduate of the University of Massachusetts at Amherst, Andre officially opened Organization By Design in April of 1992 after several years in public relations.  She is the editor of Dressing Well™ On-Line, Organization By Design's trademarked global connection that averages 20,000 visitors per month. She is also the author of "Ready to Wear: An Expert's Guide to Choosing and Using Your Wardrobe."  Andre is a frequent media commentator on issues such as professional image, wardrobe organization, personal style, and retail, and her fashion and professional image insights are regularly featured in national publications such as In Style, Real Simple, The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, The Boston Globe, Working Mother, and The Washington Post.

Click here to register for this event.

Bonnie Hunt, host and executive producer of "The Bonnie Hunt Show," will speak to a Special Chamber Forum on Thursday, February 19.

Hunt is a versatile and accomplished writer, director, producer and an Emmy®, Golden Globe and SAG Award-nominated actress, earning critical acclaim in film, television and theater.  Her latest project, "The Bonnie Hunt Show,” is a daily talk show airing on ABC and its regional affiliate WCVB Channel 5.  It offers Hunt’s smart, funny, common sense perspective to daily events throughout the world, and will introduce America to itself through the stories of its people. 

Growing up in a large, blue-collar family in Chicago, Hunt was instilled with the work ethic that has made her successful and a gift of gab that makes her so entertaining.  From her working class roots and her time as a nurse, to her success in movies and television, Hunt’s authenticity sets her and her new show apart. Hunt is also a dedicated philanthropist, raising funds to sponsor research for treatments and cures for cancer and rheumatoid arthritis, while also giving time to support organizations such as The Make-A-Wish Foundation, The Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation, and American Veterans.

To register for the event, click here.

Yesterday, the Chamber’s Women’s Network celebrated its 15th annual Pinnacle Awards ceremony.  Recognizing the professional accomplishments and achievement of eight outstanding women, the luncheon attracted nearly 1,000 attendees.  Each of the recipients has demonstrated a tremendous amount of leadership in her own field and made a commitment to enhancing the region’s quality of life.  For more information on the 2009 Pinnacle Award winners, click here.

Images from the event can be viewed here.

Coverage from the 2009 Pinnacle Awards can be found in the Boston Globe and Boston Herald.

The Chamber would like to thank Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts, Seyfarth Shaw, and TJX for sponsoring this event.  

Today the Chamber honored the winners of its 2009 Pinnacle Awards. 

This year’s honorees were recognized for their accomplishments in the following categories:

Lifetime Achievement: Myra Kraft, President, New England Patriots Charitable Foundation. 

We are all familiar with the incredible on-field success of the New England Patriots.  Yet the impact of the Patriots Charitable Foundation and the Kraft Family foundation under Myra’s leadership is equally impressive. A tireless worker on behalf of the organizations she serves, Myra has been recognized for her devotion to community-based organizations that are often overlooked by substantial donors. 

The Kraft Family Foundation focuses on furthering educational initiatives and other civic minded causes, donating to medical, educational, and arts organizations as well as numerous Jewish groups.  And the Patriots foundation gives to a wide variety of youth sports organizations, Catholic schools, and programs for at-risk children. 

Achievement in the Professions: Diane Patrick, Partner, Ropes & Gray LLP.

With an extensive background in law, public education, and human resources – it is no surprise that Diane has seen the positive impact of strong and diverse teams.  At Ropes & Gray, she is working with colleagues and The Partnership, Inc. to develop an Attorneys of Color Leadership Program.  Launched in 2008, this program brings together young lawyers from firm offices across the country to place them on the right roads to success, and help them navigate the inevitable challenges.

Achievement in Management, Private Sector:  Julie Kahn, Vice President/New England Market Manager, Entercom New England.

As the driving force behind WEEI, America’s most listened-to sports radio station, Julie has paved the way for women in sports radio.  She has built a broadcast empire that spans New England – syndicating Boston sports across nine radio stations in four states – and is expanding on the web.  Julie and her team also have an extraordinary impact on the community – raising over $20 million for charities such as the Jimmy Fund.

Achievement in Entrepreneurship: Andrea Cohen, Co-Founder & CEO, HouseWorks.

Guided by her own personal experience, Andrea founded HouseWorks to change the way care was delivered to seniors at home.  She understood that as the population aged, many seniors wanted to stay in the homes where they raised their children and lived their adult lives.  Through innovation, Andrea and her team have achieved financial success and positive social change – bringing all the benefits and safeguards of senior housing to the doorsteps of seniors and their families.

Achievement in Management, Government: Luisa Paiewonsky, Commissioner, Massachusetts Highway Department.

At a time when state government has never been more challenging and state workers are consistently underappreciated, Luisa stands out as a true public servant.  A former intern who worked her way through the Department of Transportation, Luisa does not seek the limelight, yet has achieved great success at every stop in state government.  Her mission seems simple: fix our roads and bridges and keep our highways safe.  In reality, her task is one of our region’s most difficult.

Achievement in Management, Non-Profit: Mimi La Camera, President, The Freedom Trail Foundation.

Boston’s Freedom Trail is a key link to our nation’s past, and a main driver of Boston’s visitor industry.  Yet, when Mimi took over in 2005, the organization had huge debt and no vision for the future.  Under her leadership, the Foundation has eliminated its debt, built an endowment, and increased tours 40%.  Mimi has grown the role of the Freedom Trail in education, and last year orchestrated the celebration of the Foundation’s 50th Anniversary.

Excellence in Arts & Education: Linda Edmonds Turner, Ph.D., President, Urban College of Boston.

As the recession continues to deepen, Linda’s task of providing education and workforce training to Boston’s non-traditional adult learners has never been more critical.  Her achievements – including two new workforce training opportunities for Urban College students and the establishment of a mentoring culture – have led to increases in enrollments and graduates throughout her tenure. Linda continues to make a positive difference in the lives of all her students, while also helping to provide new job opportunities and improve workforce development in our region.

Emerging Executive: Susan Esper, Partner, Deloitte & Touche LLP.

An outstanding executive in Deloitte’s financial services group, Susan is also a leader in the company’s diverse culture. Since 1994, Susan has headed Deloitte’s Initiative for the Retention & Advancement of Women (or “WIN”) in New England, helping to develop the company’s most promising women professionals.  In order to leverage the culture WIN created, Susan developed the Deloitte New England Women’s Leadership Forum, a series of networking and professional development opportunities for senior women from Deloitte’s clients.

Now in its 15th year, the Pinnacle Awards are presented by the Women’s Network of the Greater Boston Chamber. The awards honor women for outstanding achievement in the workplace, demonstrated leadership that has made a difference, and a commitment to enhance the quality of life in the region.

The Women’s Network was founded in 1994 to promote and expand economic opportunities throughout the Greater Boston region for all women in business through shared leadership and expertise. The Women’s Network offers programs that provide career enrichment and development opportunities for women at all professional levels, spotlight the accomplishments of women, and promote the positive influence that women have upon the Greater Boston region.

Opening the Government Affairs Forum for 2009, Massachusetts Attorney General Martha Coakley addressed nearly 250 Chamber members at the Boston Park Plaza Hotel on January 27. 

Taking note of the economic turmoil facing Massachusetts and the country as a whole, Coakley announced that she has filed legislation that would require creditors to help homeowners restructure their home loans and avoid foreclosure.  During her speech, Coakley also proposed creating a statewide registry for vacant and foreclosed housing, similar to a program already underway in Boston.  She closed by pledging her commitment to working with both public officials and private sector leaders to find innovative and cost-effective solutions for Massachusetts. 

Images from the event can be viewed here.

This high-profile event was covered in the Boston Globe, Boston Herald, Boston Business Journal, and the Boston Metro.

The event can be heard in its entirely at 8:00pm this Sunday, February 1, on WBUR 90.9.

Don’t forget to register for the upcoming Government Affairs Forum with Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick on Wednesday, February 18!  For event details and registration, click here.

The Chamber would like to thank Bank of America for their continued sponsorship of the Government Affairs Forum.

Massachusetts Attorney General Martha Coakley will address the Chamber's Government Affairs Forum this Tuesday, January 27, at the Boston Park Plaza Hotel.

Coakley brings a diverse and extensive legal background to the Attorney General’s office, as well as a reputation for bringing people together to find effective solutions to important issues.

Since taking office in 2007, she has created a Business, Technology, and Economic Development Department within the Attorney General’s office and has collaborated with business leaders to work toward a favorable regulatory process that encourages economic development.  Coakley has also been a strong advocate for legislation to streamline the approval process for academic and research insitutions to conduct stem cell research – an important step toward maintaining Massachusetts’ leadership in this critical industry.

To register for the event, click here.

Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick will be the featured speaker at the Chamber's Government Affairs Forum breakfast on February 18, 2009, at the InterContinental Boston.

Since taking office in 2007, Governor Patrick has launched an ambitious effort to prepare Massachusetts for a new generation of economic, cultural, and technological transformation.  Under his leadership, the state passed a $1 billion life science bill that will grow the biotech industry in Massachusetts.  He has also steered the successful implementation of major policy changes critical to the state’s future, including permitting reform and the new health care law.

Click here to register for this event.

As 2009 rapidly approaches, don’t miss the kick-off of the Chamber’s Government Affairs Forum series with Massachusetts Attorney General Martha Coakley.  This high-profile event will take place on Tuesday, January 27, at the Boston Park Plaza Hotel and tickets are now available online. 

For event details and registration, click here. 

On December 10, Trudy Sullivan, president and CEO of The Talbots, Inc., spoke at a sold-out Women’s Network Breakfast, closing out the series for 2008.  In front of a packed room of Talbots regulars, Sullivan shared her love of fashion and journey through the retail industry.  She talked of Talbots’ focus on suburban professional and women over the age of 40.  Though the brand has been around for years, with consumer spending at a record low, Sullivan is focusing on reinventing the store’s image and turning things around.  Like many other CEOs fighting to keep their businesses alive, she commented on the importance of leadership, but also placed a strong emphasis on the critical need to establish a dedicated team of professionals.  Looking forward, Sullivan said that experimenting is necessary for the company right now, and that it will take some trial and error to successfully reinvent the brand. 

To view images from the event, click here.

This event was covered in today’s Boston Globe and Boston Herald. 

The Chamber would like to thank PricewaterhouseCoopers for sponsoring this event.

Stay connected with the Chamber blog for information on the 2009 Women’s Network Breakfast series and much more!

Don't miss additional media coverage of yesterday’s Government Affairs Forum with Mayor Thomas Menino in today's Boston Globe, Boston Herald, Boston Metro, and Belmont Citizen-Herald!

Closing out the 2008 Government Affairs Forum series, City of Boston Mayor Thomas Menino spoke today to more than 500 Chamber members at the Boston Park Plaza Hotel. 

Having dedicated over 10 years of leadership to this great city, Mayor Menino discussed ways to bolster Boston’s economy and stimulate job growth.  He announced his $40 million plan titled ‘Boston Invests’ which looks to invest in stalled city projects to strengthen the economy and generate a return on investments.  Mayor Menino reinforced his support of foreclosure prevention as part of economic recovery, and also announced his plan to seek greater contributions from universities and hospitals in an effort to increase the city’s value.  The mayor closed on a positive note, urging residents to look forward and build on the city’s strengths. 

To view images from the event, click here.

This high-profile event was covered by the Boston Globe and Boston Herald.  The event can also be heard in its entirely at 8:00pm this Sunday,
December 14, on WBUR 90.9.

The Chamber would like to thank Bank of America for sponsoring the Government Affairs Forums. The 2009 series will kick-off with Massachusetts Attorney General Martha Coakley. Check the blog next week for registration details!

The Chamber held the Annual Holiday Reception last night at the State Room Boston. More than 500 Chamber members came out to kick off the holiday season with a great night of networking.

To download images from the event, click here.

The Chamber would like to thank Blue Cross Blue Shield of MA, Mercer, and Holland and Knight LLP for sponsoring the event.

Trudy Sullivan, president and CEO of The Talbots, Inc., will address the Chamber's Women's Network Breakfast next Wednesday, December 10. 

Despite the difficult economy, Sullivan's efforts to turn the women's clothing company around are continuing in her second year at the helm.  Last week, a successful effort to secure $125 million in credit from two Japanese banks helped the company's stock surge 25%. 

To register for the event, click here.

Sullivan has served as president and CEO of The Talbots, Inc., since August 2007. With 35 years of retailing and merchandising experience, Sullivan is ideally suited to guide the strategic direction and initiatives for Talbots which employs more than 16,000 workers and brings in nearly $2 billion in revenue.

An expert in specialty retail, Sullivan previously served as president of Liz Claiborne, Inc. where she was responsible for building and leading multiple apparel and non-apparel men’s and women’s brands. Her extensive merchandising career also includes a leadership role at J. Crew Group, Inc. and positions at Jordan Marsh and Filene’s.

Sullivan has been active in numerous organizations supporting the health and welfare of women. She served as a member of the Executive Women in Fashion Advisory Board at the Fashion Institute of Technology for many years, and has been honored by the YWCA-NYC Academy of Women Leaders and the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation of New York. Sullivan earned her B.A. from Manhattanville College and completed graduate studies in business at Simmons College in Boston.

On Tuesday, December 8, Boston Mayor Tom Menino will give his annual address to the Chamber's Government Affairs Forum. 

In past years, the Mayor has used the event to make major policy announcements, including his plan to move City Hall (2006), and his efforts to make Boston a 'Green' city (2007). 

Click here to register for the event.

The longest serving mayor in Boston' s illustrious history, Menino continues to be a champion for the neighborhoods he serves. Since his election in 1993, Menino has also been a strong advocate for the business community – providing critical leadership through periods of financial growth as well as slowdowns.  As we navigate the current downturn, Mayor Menino is committed to promoting the city’s economic vitality and is working with the Chamber and retail, hospitality, and tourism industries to encourage commerce around the holidays.

Over the past year, Menino has continued his efforts to solidify the city’s competitiveness in a global market. He recently joined a delegation that traveled to Rome to promote the city as a destination for business. The Mayor has also announced innovative, new initiatives to make Boston a more environmentally friendly city.  He has called for the city’s first community-wide greenhouse gas inventory and a 10-percent increase in recycling by 2012, and has worked with the city’s major building owners to save energy by darkening the Boston skyline overnight.